Wristwatch band with longitudinal, transverse and torsional flexibility

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates generally to a wristband, and in particular, to a wristband for a watch, wherein the watchband can flex and pivot about a longitudinal axis extending the length of the watchband and a transverse axis extending across the width of the watchband. The watchband has a plurality of segments spaced along its length, and each segment has a first and second adjacent section extending across the width of the watchband. Each segment can pivot about the transverse axis, and each section can pivot about the longitudinal axis. The watchband can stretch in the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a wristband, and inparticular, to a wristband for a watch, wherein the watchband can flexand pivot about both longitudinal and transverse axes.

2. Description of the Related Art

Many types of straps and bracelets, and in particular, watchbandsdesigned to hold a timepiece around a user's wrist, are known in theart. However, it is difficult to design a watchband that both resistswear and comfortably conforms to a user's wrist.

A number of watchbands have been developed in attempts to provide awatchband that is either wear resistant or that conforms comfortably toa user's wrist. For example, watchbands have been developed thatcomprise a flexible material, such as a plastic or leather strap. Thesewatchbands may have improved conformance to a user's wrist, but aresubject to wear and may require regular replacement, which can be costlyand inconvenient to the owner of the watch. Watchbands have beendeveloped for improved wear-resistance, such as those comprisingstronger or rigid materials, such as metal. However, these rigid designsmay require complex mechanisms such as hinges and springs in order forthe watchband to fit around a user's wrist. These mechanisms may also beprone to failure, and are thus also expensive to maintain, repair andreplace. Further, metal watchband designs have limited flexibility, andthus may not conform to a user's wrist, and are uncomfortable to wear.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the wristwatch band of the present invention have severalfeatures, no single one of which is solely responsible for theirdesirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this invention, itsmore prominent features will now be discussed briefly. However, not allof the following features are necessary to achieve the advantages of thewristwatch band. Therefore, none of the following features should beviewed as limiting. After considering this discussion, and particularlyafter reading the section entitled “Detailed Description of thePreferred Embodiments,” one will understand how the features of thepreferred embodiments provide advantages over prior art.

There is provided in accordance with one aspect of the presentinvention, a band having longitudinal, transverse and torsionalflexibility. The band may be worn on a wrist or ankle of a wearer, andmay support a watch or other device. The band comprises a plurality ofsegments extending in a loop for encircling the wrist. A first segmentextends at least partially across a width of the band, and comprises afirst section and a second section. The first and second sections areseparated by a longitudinal flexible joint.

A second segment is connected to the first segment, the first and secondsegments aligned along a longitudinal axis of the band. The secondsegment is flexible about a transverse axis relative to the firstsegment.

The second segment may comprise first and second side-by-side sections.The sections are separated by a longitudinally extending flexible joint.The band comprises a plurality of segments flexibly connected end to endalong the length of the band. This results in a plurality of transverseflex lines, allowing the band to be flexed into a circular configurationsuch as for wearing on a wrist. The band may also be flexed about atleast one longitudinal flex line, extending circumferentially around thewrist.

There is provided in accordance with another aspect of the presentinvention, a method of enabling a band to conform to noncylindricalanatomy, such as a wrist at the junction with the hand.

The band comprises at least one longitudinally extending flex line,which, in the as worn orientation, encircles the wrist. The bandadditionally comprises a plurality of transverse flex lines, which, inthe as worn orientation, extend in parallel to the longitudinal axis ofthe wearer's wrist.

As the band slides in a distal direction with respect to the wearer'sarm, a distal row of modular sections in the band can flare radiallyoutwardly in the distal direction, with respect to a proximal row ofmodular segments, spaced apart around the circumference of the wearer'swrist.

Further features of the present invention will become apparent from thedetailed descriptions of preferred embodiments which follows, whenconsidered together with the attached drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings are schematic, not necessarily drawn to scale, andare meant to illustrate and not to limit embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic partial side cross-sectional view of aconventional watchband.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are schematic top and cross-sectional side views,respectively, of a watchband having certain features of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment ofthe watchband illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 viewed from a transverse axisextending across the width of the watchband.

FIG. 4A shows a schematic partial perspective side view of an embodimentof a watchband.

FIG. 5A is a schematic cross-sectional end view of an embodiment of thewatchband illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 viewed from a longitudinal axisextending along the length of the watchband.

FIG. 5B is a schematic cross-sectional end view of an embodiment of thewatchband illustrated in FIG. 5A flexed along the longitudinal axis.

FIG. 6A is a schematic partial side cross-sectional view of a watchband.

FIG. 6B is a schematic partial side cross-sectional view of a watchband.

FIGS. 7A-7B are schematic top perspective and exploded top perspectiveviews, respectively, of an embodiment of a watchband.

FIGS. 7C-7D are schematic bottom perspective and exploded bottomperspective views, respectively, of the watchband illustrated in FIGS.7A-7B.

FIGS. 7E and 7F are schematic top and bottom perspective views,respectively, of a segment of the watchband shown in FIGS. 7A-7D.

FIGS. 7G-7I are schematic partial side cross-sectional views of awatchband.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic top and cross-sectional end views,respectively, of an embodiment of a watchband.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side cross-sectional perspective end view of awatchband viewed along a longitudinal axis.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 illustrates a partial side cross-sectional perspective view of aconventional wristband that can be worn around a user's wrist. Thewristband can be a watchband 10, configured to hold a timepiece (notshown). Many aspects of the watchband 10 shown in FIG. 1 can be used invarious embodiments of the present invention. The watchband 10 cancomprise a plurality of segments 20, wherein each segment thereofextends across a width W of the watchband 10. The plurality of segments20 can comprise a segment 21 that is pivotably, or hingeably, connectedalong its width to an approximately adjacent segment 22. Segments 21 and22 can be pivotably connected to each other with a rotatable element 30.Rotatable element 30 allows segment 21 to pivot relative to segment 22about a transverse axis 40 configured between segments 21 and 22 andextending through the width of watchband 10. In the illustratedembodiment, transverse axis 40 can extend through the center of rotationof the rotatable element 30. Rotatable element 30 can comprise any typeof element that hingeably connects segment 21 to segment 22, such as aplurality of alternating apertured tabs or knuckles, pivotably heldtogether by a hinge pin as is known in the art. Here, for exemplarypurposes, element 30 is illustrated as a generic hinge 30. Segments 20and hinges 30 can comprise many different materials, although inconventional watchband designs, segments 20 and hinges 30 typicallycomprise a rigid material, such as a metal.

The hinge 30 can be configured between each segment in the watchband 10,allowing each segment to pivot relative to an approximately adjacentsegment and function similarly to that described above for segments 21and 22. When the plurality of segments 20 pivot, watchband 10 can atleast partially wrap around a central axis 50, forming a channel 60through which a user can extend his or her wrist. As used herein, awatchband is in a “transversely wrapped” position when it at leastpartially wraps around a central axis to form a channel through which auser can extend his or her wrist.

Channel 60 can comprise many different geometries, such as an oblong orapproximately oval shape. In the illustrated embodiment, channel 60 canbe approximately cylindrical, comprising a first opening 70 a of adiameter φ₁ configured at its proximal end, and a second opening 70 b ofa diameter φ₂ configured at its distal end. In a conventional watchband10, diameter φ₁ is approximately equal to diameter φ₂ because segments20 and hinges 30 extend substantially across the width of watchband 10and the rigidity of the materials used for segments 20 and hinges 30 donot allow the watchband 10 to flex or pivot in a direction other thanaround transverse axis 40. As such, the cross sectional area, shape, andorientation of opening 70 a is approximately equal to the crosssectional area, shape, and orientation of opening 70 b in a conventionalwatchband 10 with segments 20 comprising a rigid material. Thus, theadjacent segments 20 in a conventional watchband can only pivot about asingle, transverse axis 40 and can only provide a channel 60 of asingle, or continuous diameter, cross sectional area, shape, andorientation throughout its axial length, through which a user can extendhis or her wrist.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are a schematic top and cross-sectional side view,respectively, of a watch 100, which can include a watchband 110connected to a timepiece 115. The watchband 110 illustrated in FIGS. 2and 3 is shown in a substantially unwrapped, or substantially flat,position. As used herein, a watchband is in an “unwrapped” or “flat”position when it does not pivot about a longitudinal or transverse axis.Watchband 110 can comprise a single integrated piece, or, as shown inthe illustrated embodiment, watchband 110 can comprise a first portion110 a and a second portion 110 b, connected to opposing sides oftimepiece 115, as is well known in the art. As used herein, the ends offirst portion 110 a and second portion 110 b that can be connected totimepiece 115 are referred to as the “proximal” ends of portions 110 a,110 b, and the ends of first portion 110 a and second portion 110 b thatextend away from timepiece 115 and the proximal ends, are referred to asthe “distal” ends of watchband portions 110 a, 110 b.

First portion 110 a can comprise a first connector 112 a connected tothe distal end of first portion 110 a. Second portion 110 b can comprisea second connector 112 b connected to the distal end of second portion110 b. First connector 112 a and second connector 112 b can beconfigured to connect and disconnect the distal ends of first portion110 a and second portion 110 b, as is known in the art. For example,first connector 112 a can be sized and shaped to receive secondconnector 112 b, or 112 b can be sized and shaped to receive firstconnector 112 a, such as with a buckle and corresponding strap, or apair of interlocking clips or clasps, or other watchband connectorsknown in the art. First connector 112 a and/or second connector 112 bcan comprise a mechanism that is moveable between a locked and unlockedposition, such as a latch, to hold connectors 112 a and 112 b in aconnected and disconnected position, respectively.

Watchband 110 can comprise a plurality of segments 120 that can bespaced along the length of sections 110 a and/or 110 b, wherein eachsegment can extend at least partially across the width of watchband 110.Segments 120 can comprise many different shapes, such as square,rectangular or trapezoidal, and can vary in size and shape along thelength of watchband 110. Segments 120 can be solid or hollow, and can beflat or have a surface profile or surface structures to give watchband110 an “armored” appearance. In an embodiment, segments 120 can be anapproximately rectangular prism and can be approximately equal size. Ina preferred embodiment described further below, segments 120 can varysuch as progressively in size and shape along the length of watchband110 and can comprise a lip, or sidewall extending away from an angledtop portion.

The plurality of segments 120 can comprise a first segment 121 that ispivotably connected along its width to a segment 122 configuredapproximately adjacent to segment 122 relative to the length ofwatchband 110. Segments 121 and 122 can be pivotably connected to eachother to allow segment 121 to pivot relative to segment 122 about atransverse axis 140 that extends through the width of first section 110a. The plurality of segments 120, segments 121 and 122, and transverseaxis 140 can function similarly to the manner described above and shownin FIG. 1 for the plurality of segments 20, segments 21 and 22, andtransverse axis 40, respectively. Segments 121 and 122 can be pivotablyconnected to each other with a rotatable element 30 as described above(not shown in FIGS. 2 and 3). In some embodiments, segments 121 and 122can be pivotably connected to each other with a flexible element 130, asdescribed further below. Note that the function and structures describedherein for the segments of any watchband embodiment, such as adjacentsegments 121 and 122 of watchband 110, either individually, or inrelation to each other as a pair of adjacent segments, are for exemplarypurposes, and can be employed for any individual segments or pair ofadjacent segments within the plurality of segments for that watchbandembodiment.

Segments 120 can comprise any of a variety of different materials, suchas a plastic or metal. Segments 120 can vary in material along thelength of watchband 110, and each individual segment can comprise morethan one material, such as a plated metal. In some embodiments, segment120 is a precious metal, such as gold or silver. Segments 120 mayalternatively comprise stainless steel, titanium, magnesium, alloys suchas Nickel-Titanium alloys (Nitinol), carbon fiber composites and othermaterials known in the art.

Each segment in the plurality of segments 120 can comprise two or moreside-by-side sections, with each section extending partially across thewidth of watchband 110. The adjacent sections can be configured onopposing sides of a longitudinal axis 80 which extends along the lengthof watchband 110.

In the illustrated embodiment, segment 121 can comprise a first section121 a configured approximately adjacent to a second section 121 b,extending across the width of watchband 110. The next segment 122 cancomprise a first section 122 a configured approximately adjacent to asecond section 122 b extending across the width of watchband 110.

Sections 121 a and 122 a can be configured on one side of longitudinalaxis 80, with sections 121 b and 122 b configured on the opposite sideof longitudinal axis 80. Although longitudinal axis 80 is shownextending approximately centrally through the length of watchband 110,in some embodiments, longitudinal axis 80 can be laterally offset fromthe longitudinal midline. In other embodiments, such as that shown inFIG. 9 and described further below, two or more longitudinal axes 80 canextend through the length of watchband 110, and segments 121 and 122 cancomprise more than two sections of the same or different size spacedacross the width of watchband 110. Although sections 121 a and 122 a areshown as being approximately the same size as sections 121 b and 122 b,respectively, in some embodiments, section 121 a can be a different sizethan section 121 b, and section 122 a can be a different size thansection 122 b. Note that the function and structures described hereinfor the sections of any segment within a watchband embodiment, such asadjacent sections 121 a, 121 b of segments 121 of watchband 110, eitherindividually, or in relation to each other as a pair of adjacentsections, are for exemplary purposes, and can be employed for anyindividual sections or pair of adjacent sections within the plurality ofsegments for that watchband embodiment.

Sections 121 a and 122 a can be pivotably or hingeably connected tosegments 121 b and 122 b, respectively, and can rotate relative to eachother about longitudinal axis 80, as will be described further below.Sections 121 a and 122 a can be connected to sections 121 b and 122 b,respectively, with a rotatable element 30 as described above in FIG. 1.In some embodiments, the adjacent sections of the segments withinwatchband 110 are connected to a flexible element so that the adjacentsections can rotate about the longitudinal axis 80, as describedpresently.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, watchband 110 can comprise a flexiblesupport element 130 connected to the plurality of segments 120. Theflexible element 130 can comprise many different shapes and sizes. Insome embodiments, the flexible element 130 can comprise a rod, or bar,or a plurality of rods or bars, extending across the width and/or lengthof watchband 110. In some embodiments, flexible element 130 can be anapproximately rectangular strip of flexible material that provides astructure on which segments 120 can be mounted.

Flexible element 130 can be configured to connect portions 110 a, 110 bof watchband 110 to the timepiece 115. Flexible element 130 can beconnected to timepiece 115 in many different ways, such as with a snapor friction fit, clamps, clips, pin and loop or other hinge, adhesive,or any other mechanical, chemical, thermal, or other bonding methodsknown in the art. In some embodiments, flexible element 130 can behingeably connected to timepiece 115, so that watchband portions 110 a,110 b can rotate relative to timepiece 115, as is known in the art. In apreferred embodiment, flexible element 130 comprises an outer flange 151that can extend at an angle from the proximal end of flexible element130. One or more holes 150 can extend through flange 151, andcorresponding aligned holes can be configured on each side of timepiece115. Screws or other fasteners 152 can extend through holes 150 andscrew into corresponding holes on the side of timepiece 115 to connectflexible element 130 and either of watchband portions 110 a, 110 b totimepiece 115.

The flexible element 130 can comprise any of a variety of materialssuitably flexible about a transverse axis and a longitudinal axis asdescribed herein. Flexible element 130 can comprise elastomers or otherplastics, rubber, or leather, or composite materials such as reinforcedfabrics, fibers or rebar. Flexible element 130 can comprise layers orcomposite materials, such as a rubber bonded with a flexible metalbacking or fiber reinforced polymers. In a preferred embodiment,flexible element 130 comprises rubber.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional elevational side view ofan embodiment of the watchband 110 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 in atransversely wrapped position. In this embodiment, segments 120 can bemounted on a top surface 131 of flexible support 130. Segments 120 canbe mounted on flexible support 130 in many different ways, such as witha mechanical fastener, an interference and/or press fit, adhesive,and/or any other mechanical, chemical, thermal, or other bonding methodsknown in the art. In a preferred embodiment, segments 120 can be mountedto flexible element 130 with screws, as described further below andshown in FIGS. 7B-D and 7G-H. Flexible element 130 can comprise a groove132 that can extend at least partially across the width of a bottomsurface 133 of flexible element 130. The cross section of groove 132 cancomprise many different shapes, such as a rectangle, triangle, trapezoidor semicircle. In a preferred embodiment, groove 132 can extend acrossthe entire width of flexible element 130 and can comprise anapproximately rectangular cross-sectional shape. Groove 132 can providean airspace for breathability, or provide a gripping function, when theflexible element 130 is worn against a user's skin, and it can provideincreased flexibility of flexible element 130 along each transverse flexplane. The size and shape of groove 132 can be varied to tune the amountof flexibility of flexible support 130.

A transverse axis 140 can extend across the width of flexible element130 and below a gap 134 configured between adjacent segments 121 and122. Segments 121 and 122, transverse axis 140, and flexible element 130can function similarly to segments 21 and 22, transverse axis 40, andhinge 30, respectively, described above and shown in FIG. 1. Atransverse axis 140 can be configured for each corresponding pair ofadjacent segments in the plurality of segments 120, and is shown in FIG.4 as being configured only below segments 121 and 122 for simplicity.

In operation, a force can be applied to the ends of flexible element 130or watchband 110, in the directions shown by arrows 135 and 136.Flexible element 130 can flex in response to the applied force, andsegments 121 and 122 can pivot about the transverse axis 140 inresponse. When segments 121 and 122 pivot about the transverse axis 140,the gap 134 increases or decreases in length. For example, when segments121 and 122 are moved in the direction shown by arrow 136, the gap 134can increase in length, and when segments 121 and 122 are moved in thedirection shown by arrow 135, the gap 134 can decrease in length. Assuch, when segments 121 and 122 are moved in the direction shown byarrow 136, they pivot away from each other, and when segments 121 and122 are moved in the direction shown by arrow 136, they pivot away fromeach other.

When the force is applied to flexible element 130, the plurality ofsegments 120 can collectively pivot, as described above for segments 121and 122, moving watchband 110 about the central axis 50 in the directionof the applied force. In this way, watchband 110 can move from atransversely wrapped position to a flat position, and vice versa. Asdescribed above, FIGS. 2 and 3 show watchband 110 in a flat position,and FIG. 4 shows watchband 110 in a transversely wrapped position. In anembodiment shown in FIG. 4, watchband 110 can be moved from a flatposition to a transversely wrapped position by moving flexible element130 about the central axis 50 in the direction shown by arrows 136.Watchband 110 can be moved from a transversely wrapped position to aflat position by moving flexible element 130 about the central axis 50in the direction shown by arrows 135. When watchband 110 is in atransversely wrapped position, it can form a channel or aperture 160through which a user can extend his or her wrist. As such, watchband 110and channel 160 can function similarly to watchband 10 and channel 60,as described above and shown in FIG. 1. In an embodiment shown in FIG.4, when watchband 110 is in a transversely wrapped position, the bottomsurface 133 of flexible element 130 can face and contact the user'swrist, and segments 120 can face outwardly from watchband 110 and theuser's wrist. When segments 120 face outwardly from watchband 110, theycan protect flexible element 130 from wear, increasing the expected lifeof flexible element 130.

FIG. 4A shows a schematic perspective side view of an embodiment of thewatchband shown in FIG. 4. In this embodiment, the configuration offlexible element 130 and segments 120 on watchband 110 are reversedrelative to a user's wrist and timepiece 115 (not shown). In thisembodiment, watchband 110 can be moved from a flat position to atransversely wrapped position by moving flexible element 130 about acentral axis 50 a in the direction shown by arrows 135. In thisembodiment, watchband 110 can be moved from a transversely wrappedposition to a flat position by moving flexible element 130 about thecentral axis 50 a in the direction shown by arrows 136. When watchband110 is in a transversely wrapped position, it can form a channel 160 athrough which a user can extend his or her wrist. In this embodiment,the top surfaces of segments 120 face and contact the user's wrist. Inthis embodiment, the bottom surface 133 of the flexible element 130faces outwardly from watchband 110 and the user's wrist. In someembodiments, a watchband 110 can be removably or pivotably connectedwith timepiece 115 so the user can select between a watchband in whichflexible element 130 faces the user's wrist, as shown in FIG. 4, and awatchband in which the segments 120 face the user's wrist, as shown inFIG. 4A. In this way, watchband 110 and/or watchband 210 can bereversible. Note that in some embodiments, a second plurality ofsegments can be connected to flexible element 130 on a side opposite tothe plurality of segments 120, such as that described below and shown inFIG. 9.

FIG. 5A is a schematic cross-sectional end view of an embodiment of thewatchband 110 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 viewed from the longitudinalaxis 80. FIG. 5A shows watchband 110 in a flat position aboutlongitudinal axis 80. FIG. 5A illustrates an embodiment of segment 121wherein sections 121 a and 121 b can comprise a sidewall 124 a connectedto and extending at an angle from a top section 124 b. In an embodiment,sidewall 124 a can extend approximately perpendicular to top section 124b. The outer surface of sidewall 124 a can extend at an angle from topsection 124 b within the range of from about 15° to about 90°, oftenfrom about 35° to about 55°. See FIGS. 7A-7F.

Top section 124 b and sidewall 124 a can be solid or hollow, and can bemany different shapes, such as a triangular, trapezoidal, or rectangularprism. In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A-7F, the top surface of asection 121 a increases in thickness towards the central longitudinalaxis 80 and the complementary section 121 b also increases in thicknesstowards the longitudinal axis 80 to form a ridge with a longitudinal gapbetween the two adjacent sections that extends the length of watchband110. Referring again to FIG. 5A, top section 124 b can be positioned onthe top surface 131 of flexible element 130, with sidewall 124 aextending over and engaging with at least a portion of a sidewall 130 aof flexible element 130. In this way, segment 121 can wrap around anedge of flexible element 130. Sidewall 124 a can comprise an innersurface 126 a that engages with sidewall 130 a and a surface 126 bconfigured on the outer surface of 124 a. Inner surface 126 a and outersurface 126 b can be configured parallel to each other or at an anglerelative to each other. Section 121 b can comprise a sidewall 124 a andtop section 124 b that are configured on the opposing sidewall 130 b offlexible element 130. A similar configuration can be employed for theother segments 120, although they are not shown for simplicity.

Top section 124 b can comprise a top surface 125 a and a bottom surface125 b. The bottom surface 125 b of top section 124 b can be sized andshaped to releasably or permanently engage with the top surface 131 offlexible element 130. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 125 b andthe top surface 131 are flat surfaces that engage with each other. Inother embodiments, either or both of surfaces 125 a and 131 can beroughened, contoured, or provided with complementary interlockingstructures to engage with each other. In a preferred embodiment, asillustrated in FIGS. 7B, 7D, 7F, 7G, and 7I, bottom surface 125 a cancomprise a pin or other element extending away therefrom that can besized and shaped to be received by a corresponding opening in topsurface 131.

FIG. 5B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of thewatchband 110 illustrated in FIG. 5A in a longitudinally wrapped, orflexed, position. Referring to both FIGS. 5A and 5B, longitudinal axis80 can extend through the length of flexible element 130 and below a gap137 configured between adjacent sections 121 a and 121 b. In operation,a force can be applied to the sidewalls 130 a, 130 b of flexible element130, in the directions shown by arrows 155 and 156. Flexible element 130can flex in response to the applied force, and segments 121 a and 121 bcan pivot about the longitudinal axis 80 in response. When segments 121a and 121 b pivot about the longitudinal axis 80, the gap 137 increasesor decreases in the length direction of the watch band. For example,when segments 121 a and 121 b are moved in the direction shown by arrow156, the gap 137 increases in length. When segments 121 and 122 aremoved in the direction shown by arrow 155, the gap 137 decreases inlength. Note that in some embodiments, flexible element 130 can extendinto and/or through gaps 134 and 137 as described above, such that anyor all of sections 121 a, 121 b and 122 a, 122 b, are recessed withinflexible element 130 (not shown).

In some embodiments, flexible element 130 can be configured to flexalong longitudinal axis 80 and/or transverse axis 140. As used herein,“along longitudinal axis” and “along transverse axis” refers to thedirection of longitudinal axis 80 or transverse axis 140 extendingthrough watchband 110, regardless of whether watchband 110 is in awrapped or flat position.

Referring to FIG. 3, in use, a linear tension force can be applied towatchband 110 along longitudinal axis 80, as shown by direction arrows165. When a force is applied in the direction shown by arrows 165,flexible element 130 can flex (stretch) in response, along thelongitudinal axis 80, increasing the length of gap 134 (and the distancebetween segments 120), and the overall length of watchband 110.

Referring to FIG. 4, in use, a radially outwardly directed force can beapplied to watchband 110 (shown in a transversely wrapped position) inthe direction shown by direction arrows 166. When a force is applied inthe direction shown by arrows 166, flexible element 130 can flexradially outwardly, or, as defined above, increasing the circumferenceof the watch band. When flexible element 130 flexes outwardly, thelength of gap 134 (and the distance between segments 120) can increase,and the overall length, or as shown here, circumference, of watchband110 can increase.

Referring to FIG. 5A, in operation, a transverse tension force can beapplied to watchband 110 (in a substantially flat position) alongtransverse axis 140, as shown by direction arrows 167. When a force isapplied in the direction shown by arrows 167, flexible element 130 canstretch laterally in response, increasing the width of gap 137 (and thedistance between sections 121 a and 121 b), and the overall width ofwatchband 110. As such, flexible element 130 can flex or stretch alongtransverse axis 140.

Referring to FIG. 5B, in operation, a radially outwardly directed forcecan be applied to watchband 110 (shown in a longitudinally wrappedposition) in the direction shown by direction arrows 157. When aradially outwardly directed force is applied in the direction shown byarrows 157, flexible element 130 can flex about longitudinal axis 80 andalong transverse axis 140. When flexible element 130 flexes radiallyoutwardly, the length of gap 137 (and the distance between sections 121a, 121 b) can increase, and the overall width of watchband 110 canincrease.

The flexibility and/or pivotability of flexible element 130 and segments120, as described above and shown in FIGS. 2-5B, allow watchband 110 toflex, pivot, and twist to conform to many different shapes and sizes,providing increased fit and comfort to the user, some embodiments ofwhich will be discussed below.

FIG. 6A illustrates a partial side cross-sectional view of watchband 110as it would be configured as worn on a wrist. In this embodiment,watchband 110 can comprise the plurality of segments 120 carried by theflexible support 130. Axes 80 and 140 are not shown in FIG. 6A forsimplicity. The watchband 110 is shown in FIG. 6A in a longitudinallywrapped position about a central axis 50, and comprises a centraltubular channel 60 and openings 70 a and 70 b for receiving a wristtherethrough. Referring again to FIG. 6A, openings 70 a and 70 bcomprise a diameter φ₁ and a diameter φ₂, respectively, configured atthe proximal end and distal end, respectively, of channel 60. In thisembodiment, flexible element 130 can flex along and/or pivot abouttransverse axis 140 and/or longitudinal axis 80, as described above, anddiameter φ₁ can vary relative to diameter φ₂.

In some embodiments, φ₁ can be substantially less than (as shown) orsubstantially greater than (not shown) diameter φ₂. In anotherembodiment, diameter φ₁ can be substantially equal to (not shown)diameter φ₂, similar to FIG. 1. In some embodiments, flexible element130 can flex along and/or pivot about transverse axis 140 and/orlongitudinal axis 80, and the cross sectional area and/or shape ofopening 70 a can be substantially different from, or substantially thesame as, the cross sectional area and/or shape of opening 70 b. In anembodiment, opening 70 a can comprise a roughly circular cross sectionalshape, and opening 70 b can comprise a roughly elliptical crosssectional shape (not shown). In another embodiment, opening 70 a andopening 70 b can be approximately the same circular cross sectionalshapes, but with different diameters φ₁ and φ₂, such that channel 60 andflexible element 130 can form an approximately frustroconical shape.Thus, channel 60 can vary in cross sectional shape, diameter, and/orarea along the width of watchband 110. As such, watchband 110 can varyin cross sectional shape, diameter, and/or area across its width whilein a wrapped position. This flexibility in cross sectional shape and/orarea of openings 70 a and 70 b, and channel 60, can provide increasedcomfort and fit to a user of watchband 110.

FIG. 6B illustrates a partial side cross-sectional view of watchband110. In this embodiment, watchband 110 can comprise the plurality ofsegments 120, the flexible element 130, the central axis 50, the channel60, and openings 70 a and 70 b of diameter φ₁ and φ₂, respectively, asdescribed above and shown in FIG. 6A. The embodiment shown in FIG. 6Bcan further comprises sections 121 a and 121 b, and gap 137 configuredtherebetween, as described above and shown in FIGS. 2-3 and 5A-5B.

Referring again to FIG. 6B, the plurality of segments can comprise asegment 123, wherein segment 123 can comprise side by side sections 123a and 123 b, with a gap 138 configured therebetween. Sections 123 a and123 b and gap 138 function similarly to sections 122 a and 122 b and gap137, respectively, and are positioned on an opposing side of channel 60therefrom. An opening 70 c of diameter φ₃ can be configured to besubstantially aligned with gaps 137, 138 and to extend across channel60. Channel 60 can comprise channel sections 60 a and 60 b configured oneither side of opening 70 c.

In this embodiment, flexible element 130 can flex along and/or pivotabout transverse axis 140 and/or longitudinal axis 80, as describedabove. When flexible element 130 flexes along and/or pivots abouttransverse axis 140 and/or longitudinal axis 80, diameters φ₁, φ₂, andφ₃ can vary relative to each other. In some embodiments, φ₁ can besubstantially less than (as shown) or substantially greater than (notshown) or substantially equal to (not shown) diameter φ₂, which can besubstantially less than (not shown) or substantially greater than (asshown) or substantially equal to (not shown) φ₃. In some embodiments,flexible element 130 can flex along and/or pivot about transverse axis140 and/or longitudinal axis 80 to vary the cross sectional area and/orshape of openings 70 a, 70 b and 70 c and channels 60 a and 60 brelative to each other. In an embodiment, openings 70 a and 70 b cancomprise an approximately circular cross sectional shape withapproximately the same cross sectional area, and opening 70 c cancomprise an elliptical shape with a substantially different crosssectional area. As such, channels 60 a and 60 b can transition in shapeand/or area along the width of watchband 110.

In the illustrated embodiment, openings 70 a, 70 b, and 70 c cancomprise an approximately circular cross sectional shape, whereindiameters φ₁ and φ₃ are approximately equal and φ₂ is substantiallygreater than φ₃ and φ₁. This might happen as the watch slides down thewearer's arm and rides up onto the wearer's hand. Channel section 60 acan comprise an approximately cylindrical shape, and channel section 60b can comprise an approximately frustroconical shape. As such, channel60 can comprise a channel section 60 a that is approximately the samecross sectional shape and area along its width, and a channel section 60b that can vary in cross sectional shape, diameter, and/or area alongits width. Thus, watchband 110 can comprise two or more channel sectionsthat vary independently of each other in cross sectional shape,diameter, and/or area across the width of watchband 110 while in awrapped position. This flexibility in cross sectional shape and/or areaof openings 70 a and 70 b, and channel 60, can provide increased comfortand fit to a user of watchband 110.

FIGS. 7A-7B show a schematic top perspective and an exploded topperspective view of an embodiment of a watchband 210. FIGS. 7C-7D show aschematic bottom perspective and an exploded bottom perspective view ofthe watchband illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B. FIGS. 7E and 7F show aschematic top and bottom perspective view of a segment 221 of thewatchband 210 shown in FIGS. 7A-7D. Watchband 210 can function similarlyto the embodiments of watchband 110 a and/or watchband 110 b describedabove and shown in FIGS. 2-6B. The elements in FIGS. 7A-7F that arenumbered the same as the elements in FIGS. 1-6B function similarly asdescribed above.

Referring to FIGS. 7A-7D, Watchband 210 comprises a connector 212 thatcan function similarly to connectors 112 a and/or 112 b described above.In the illustrated embodiment, flexible element 130 comprises openings281 extending into an upper surface 131 and the lower surface 133 offlexible element 130. Openings 281 can comprise many different shapes,such as rectangular or round holes that extend partially into the upperand lower surfaces 131, 133, with or without extending therethrough. Ina preferred embodiment, opening 281 can comprise an approximatelycircular hole that extends through flexible element 130. In an even morepreferred embodiment, opening 281 can further comprise a counterboreand/or countersink extending into surfaces 131, 133. Opening 281 can besized and shaped to receive a projection 284 that protrudes outwardlyfrom the lower surface 125 b of any of the sections of segments 120,such as sections 121 a-122 b, as shown in FIGS. 7E and 7F.

Referring to FIGS. 7B, 7D and 7F, projection 284 can be configured to bereceived by corresponding opening 281, and to connect segments 120 toflexible element 130 using any of the methods described above, such as apress fit into opening 281 or with adhesives, etc. In an embodiment,projection 284 can comprise a non-circular shape that fits into acorresponding non-circular opening 281, to prevent rotation of eachsection of segments 120 relative to flexible element 130 about an axis260 extending orthogonal to and through the thickness of flexibleelement 130, and longitudinally through pin 284. In a preferredembodiment, projection 284 can comprise a hollow cylinder comprisingfemale threads 285 extending around its inner diameter. The threads 285can be sized and shaped to receive a screw 282 that can extend throughthe lower surface 133 and opening 281 of flexible element 130. In apreferred embodiment, at least one and optionally two pins 284 andopenings 281 are employed on each section of segments 120 to preventrotation of the section relative to flexible element 130. As such, screw282 can mechanically attach segments 120 to flexible element 131.

Other embodiments can be employed to mechanically attach sections ofsegments 120, such as section 121 a, to flexible element 131. In anembodiment shown in FIG. 7G, pin 284 can comprise an approximatelycylindrical shape with threads 284 a on its outer surface that cancorrespond to matching threads 281 a on the inner diameter of opening281. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 7H, an opening 286 can extendthrough the top section 124 b of section 121 a, and screw 282 can extendthrough opening 286 and be received by threads 281 a configured on theinner diameter of opening 281. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 7I, ahead 287 can be connected to the distal end of pin 284. Head 287 can bea width greater than opening 281 and pin 284, but small enough that itcan be inserted into opening 281. In operation, a force is applied tosection 121 a in the direction shown by arrow 288, and head 284 engageswith opening 281. Opening 281 increases in width in response to theforce of head 287, and head 287 can extend through opening 281 and theopposite side of flexible element 131. When head 287 extends through theopposite side of flexible element 131, the width of opening 281 returnsto its quiescient state, preventing head 287 from moving in thedirection opposite to arrow 288, and connecting section 121 a toflexible element 131.

In any of the embodiments described above for FIGS. 7A-7G, openings 281and/or 286 can be configured with or without a countersink and/orcounterbore, so that the head of screws 282 can extend above or belowthe surfaces of segments 120 and/or flexible element 130. Allowingscrews 282 to extend below the surface of segments 120 and/or flexibleelement 130 can provide a smoother, more comfortable fit, when segment120 or flexible element 130 is worn against the user's skin, asdescribed above. Allowing screws to extend above the surface of segments120 and/or flexible element 130 can improve the engagement of watchbands110 or 210 with the user's skin, when segment 120 or flexible element130 is worn against the user's skin.

FIGS. 8A and 8B comprise a schematic top view and side view of anembodiment of a watchband 310. The elements in FIGS. 8A and 8B that arenumbered the same as the elements in FIGS. 1-7H function similarly asdescribed above. Watchband 310 can comprise a plurality of segments 120and two or more flexible elements 130 that can function relative to eachother, and relative to axes 80 and 140, similarly to the elastic supportof watchbands 110 and 120 described above.

In this embodiment, the plurality of segments comprises segments 321 and322, configured adjacent to each other, similarly to segments 121 and122 described above. Segments 321 and 322 can comprise sections 321 a,321 b, and 322 a, 322 b, respectively, configured adjacent to eachother, across the midline of the band, similarly to adjacent sections121 a, 121 b, and 122 a, 122 b, respectively, described above. Flexibleelement 130 can comprise one or two or more longitudinal sections 130 aconnecting the plurality of segments 120 along the length of watchband310. Longitudinal section 130 a can allow the adjacent segments, such assegments 321 and 322, to pivot about transverse axis 140 and flex alonglongitudinal axis 80 as described above. Longitudinal section 130 a cancomprise any of a variety of flexible and preferably elastic materialssuch as the materials described above for flexible element 130.

Longitudinal connector section 130 a can pass through and/or attach tothe plurality of segments 120 along the length of watchband 310 in manydifferent ways, such as by bonding a lower surface of section 130 a toan upwardly facing surface of segments 120, or vice versa. In anotherembodiment, longitudinal section 130 a can comprise a plurality ofindividual pieces, with each piece connected to and extending betweeneach adjacent segment within the plurality of segments 120. In apreferred embodiment, two longitudinal sections 130 a extend through afirst and second channel that extends through each of segments 120, suchas channels 301, as shown extending through sections 321 a and 321 b(See FIG. 8B).

The flexible support matrix may additionally comprise a plurality oftransverse sections 130 b connecting each of the adjacent sections ofthe plurality of segments 120, such as adjacent sections 321 a and 321b, or sections 322 a and 322 b, along the width of watchband 310.Transverse section 130 b can allow the adjacent sections, to pivot aboutlongitudinal axis 80 and flex along longitudinal axis 80 as describedabove. Transverse section 130 b can comprise any of the materialsdescribed above for flexible element 130. Transverse section 130 b canconnect the two rows of sections of the plurality of segments 120 alongthe length of watchband 310 in many different ways, such as byconnecting a lower surface of transverse section 130 b to an upwardlyfacing surface of sections 321 a (and others), or vice versa. In anotherembodiment, transverse section 130 b can comprise a plurality ofindividual pieces, with each piece connected to and extending betweeneach adjacent section within the plurality of segments 120. In apreferred embodiment, each transverse section 130 b extends through achannel that extends through at least a portion of each of segments 120,such as channel 302, as shown extending through sections 321 a and 321 b(See FIG. 8B).

FIG. 9 shows a schematic side cross-sectional perspective view of anembodiment of a watchband 410. Watchband 410 can function similarly towatchbands 110, 210, and 3 10, described above. Watchband 410 cancomprise a first plurality of segments 120 connected to a first surfaceof flexible element 130, functioning similarly to that described above.The first plurality of segments 120 can comprise segments 421 and 422,comprising sections 421 a, 421 b and sections 422 a, 422 b, thatfunction similarly to segments 121, 122 and sections 121 a, 121 b andsections 122 a, 122 b described above. In this embodiment, each segment,such as illustrated segments 421 and 422, can comprise a third row ofsections, such as illustrated sections 421 c and 422 c, extending acrossthe width of watchband 410, configured to pivot about a secondlongitudinal axis 80. Watchband 410 can also comprise a second pluralityof segments 420, such as segments 423 and 424, connected to the surfaceof flexible element 130 opposite to segments 120. The second pluralityof segments 420 can function similarly to the first plurality ofsegments 120, but will pivot in the opposite direction about axis 140and axis 80. Segments 423 and 424, and the other segments in theplurality of segments 420, can comprise sections extending across thewidth of watchband 410, such as sections 423 a-c and 424 a-c. Sections423 a-c and 424 a-c function similarly to sections 421 a-c and 422 a-c,but pivot in the opposite direction about axes 80 than sections 422 a-cand 421 a-c, respectively.

Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certainembodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in theart that the invention extends beyond the specifically disclosedembodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obviousmodifications and equivalents thereof Accordingly, the invention is notintended to be limited by the specific disclosures of preferredembodiments herein.

1. A band for a wristwatch, comprising: a first segment extending atleast partially across a width of the band, the first segment comprisinga first section and a second section, wherein the first section isadjacent to the second section, the first and second sections spacedacross the width of the band; a second segment extending at leastpartially across the width of the band, the second segment configuredapproximately adjacent to the first segment along a length of the band,wherein the second segment is pivotably connected to the first segment,wherein the first and second segments can pivot relative to the other ofthe first and second segments about a transverse axis extending throughthe width of the band; and a first flexible element extending at leastpartially across the width of the band, the first and second segmentsconnected to the flexible element, wherein the first and second sectionspivot relative to the other of the first and second sections about alongitudinal axis extending through the length of the band.
 2. The bandof claim 1, wherein the flexible element is configured to flex along thetransverse axis.
 3. The band of claim 1, wherein the second segment ispivotably connected to the first segment with the flexible element. 4.The band of claim 1, wherein the first and second sections aresubstantially the same size and/or shape.
 5. The band of claim 1,wherein the first segment can wrap around the flexible element.
 6. Theband of claim 1, further comprising a channel extending through thefirst segment, wherein the flexible element extends into the channel. 7.The band of claim 1, wherein the flexible element comprises alongitudinal section, the longitudinal section extending at leastpartially along the length of the band, the first and second segmentsconnected to the longitudinal section.
 8. The band of claim 1, whereinthe first and second segments are connected to a first side of theflexible element, further comprising a third segment connected to anopposing side of the flexible element, the third segment configured topivot in the opposite direction as the first and second segments.
 9. Theband of claim 1, wherein the first segment comprises a bottom surface,further comprising a pin extending away from the bottom surface, whereinthe pin engages with an opening on a surface of the flexible element.10. The band of claim 1, wherein the band is reversible relative to thewristwatch.
 11. The band of claim 1, wherein the first section comprisesa sidewall and a top section, the sidewall extending away from the topsection at an angle.
 12. The band of claim 1, wherein the flexibleelement is configured to flex along the longitudinal and/or thetransverse axis.
 13. The band of claim 2, wherein the watchband isconfigured to be wrapped about a central axis to form a channel, thechannel comprising a first and second opening at its opposed ends,wherein the cross-sectional shape and/or area, and/or width of the firstopening is substantially different from the cross-sectional shape and/orarea, and/or width of the second opening.
 14. The band of claim 13,wherein the channel comprises a frustro-conical shape.
 15. The band ofclaim 12, further comprising a third opening extending across a middlesection of the channel, wherein the channel comprises a first channelsection and a second channel section, wherein the cross-sectional shapeand/or area and/or width of the third opening is substantially differentfrom the cross-sectional shape and/or area, and/or width of at least thefirst or second opening.
 16. A band for a wristwatch, comprising: afirst segment extending at least partially across a width of the band,the first segment comprising a first section and a second section,wherein the first section is configured to be approximately adjacent tothe second section, the first and second sections spaced across thewidth of the band; a second segment extending at least partially acrossthe width of the band, the second segment comprising a third sectionconfigured approximately adjacent to the first segment and spaced alonga length of the band, wherein the first and second segments can pivotrelative to the other of the first and second segments about atransverse axis extending through the width of the band; a firstflexible element extending at least partially across the width of theband, the first and second sections connected to the flexible element,wherein the flexible element can flex along the transverse axis.